The 2013 Volvo C30 has a five-cylinder engine mated to a six-speed manual transmission. A five-speed automatic transmission is available. According to reviewers, the C30 gets up to speed easily, especially the limited-edition Polestar model, which has a bit more power. Several critics commented that the manual transmission’s gear lever has long throws and the clutch has a vague engagement point. The 2013 C30 gets an EPA-estimated 21/30 mpg city/highway with the automatic transmission, which is a bit low for the class. Test drivers said the front-wheel drive Volvo C30 has a comfortable ride and well-controlled handling, but a few thought it isn’t as agile or fun to drive as some competitors. Some critics also mentioned that the brakes could be stronger.

Most test drivers praised the 2013 Volvo C30’s stylish, well-made cabin. The C30 seats four, and reviewers said the C30 has plenty of head- and legroom in the front seats and that outward visibility is good. Several commented that the two rear seats are fairly comfortable, but most agreed that they lack sufficient legroom. Standard features include Bluetooth, an auxiliary input jack and a USB port. Available features include a sunroof, a 10-speaker Dolby Pro Logic surround sound audio system, satellite radio, navigation and blind spot monitoring. Some reviewers found that the Volvo C30’s interior controls are difficult to use and the buttons are hard to tell apart. The 2013 C30 has 12.9 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats in use and 20.2 cubic feet of space with them folded, which is less cargo space than most hatchback rivals have.

Other Cars to Consider

The 2013 Audi A3 has lots of cargo space for the class and reviewers liked its top-notch cabin materials. Most test drivers said the A3 has ample power with either its standard engine or its available diesel engine, and with the diesel, the A3 gets great fuel economy for the class.

The 2013 Volkswagen GTI has more cargo space than the C30, and test drivers said it has a roomy back seats. Additionally, the GTI gets better fuel economy than the C30 and reviewers agreed that it is very fun to drive.